Woolworths reintroduces its popular reusable shopping bag in a compact mini version priced at just $15, following the rapid sell-out of the original during its debut. The retailer partners again with designer Anya Hindmarch, creator of the iconic Universal Bag, to offer the eco-friendly tote at over 400 stores across Australia.
Success of the Original Collaboration
The full-sized green tote, launched last year for $20, vanished from shelves in record time due to overwhelming shopper demand. This marked Hindmarch’s first Australian project. Coles later introduced a similar version, sparking equal enthusiasm.
Now, the mini bag arrives in two color options, ideal for everyday use. “It’s a great everyday size; I find mine useful for office lunches on the go,” Hindmarch states. She adds, “There has been huge demand for a smaller version since we first launched the project, so I’m delighted to partner with Woolworths to introduce this new size nationwide in both main and metro stores.”
Woolworths’ Sustainability Push
Woolworths chose Hindmarch, who started the Universal Bag in 2021, to promote sustainable shopping choices after the 2025 collaboration’s triumph. “Our customers absolutely loved the bag we launched last year, and it’s wonderful to still see them being used in our aisles every day,” says Rhonda Ma, Category Manager at Woolworths. “This new mini version offers something different again. It’s a great size for a quick shop, a chic lunch tote, or even a stylish way to carry your tech.”
The bags hit stores this week. Ma advises shoppers to act fast, given last year’s frenzy.
Affordable Luxury
Anya Hindmarch shoulder bags typically retail for up to £1695 (about $A3400), positioning the $15 Woolworths edition as an exceptional value. Hindmarch assures ample stock this time: “Demand at launch was incredible. This is a product designed to fulfill a need at an accessible price point with the hope that everyone who wants one can purchase it. There should be plenty of stock to meet demand.”
Addressing concerns over partnering with a British designer instead of a local one, Hindmarch explains, “In our experience, the most successful sustainable projects are also commercially viable. As you can imagine, there are costs involved such as research and development, production, etc. A solution that is desirable to the customer, sustainable, and commercial is likely to have a much more positive long-term impact.”
Shopper Buzz Builds
Social media erupts with excitement since the announcement. One user shares, “Love my regular sized Woolies one. Excited for the mini.” Another notes, “Use mine from last year weekly. They are great and durable and hold so many items.” Comments like “These look so cool!!! Will have to grab one” and calls to “run, not walk” to stores reflect the hype.
Global Universal Bag Impact
The Universal Bag initiative collaborates with major retailers worldwide to provide durable, 100% recycled and recyclable totes with a 10-year guarantee, each customized to the brand. It appears in UK chains like Asda, Co-op, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose, plus upscale spots such as Selfridges Food Hall and Whole Foods UK. Availability extends to select stores in Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, with more partners planned.
“The Mini with Woolworths is our 28th global edition,” Hindmarch reveals. “Collaboratively, the project has saved over 430 tonnes of virgin plastic from landfill to date, the equivalent of 260 standard cars. My hope is that we continue to drive habitual change and offer a long-lasting alternative to single-use plastic bags.”
